Cons

Dated decor, with signs of wear and tear in some bathrooms and kitchens

Not on the beach

No in-room Wi-Fi; only in lobby and pool area for a fee

Street noise can be an issue in some rooms

No elevator

Poor views

Pool can get crowded during high season

No on-site dining

Bottom Line

The White Sands is a three-building hotel complex offering basic accommodations in a central location that is two blocks from Waikiki Beach. Originally built in the 1950s, it was renovated in 2001 and could use some further upkeep, but it is a solid option for budget travelers looking to be in the center of the action, as it is near shops and Waikiki's booming nightlife. The White Sands is a value property that caters to an array of travelers on a budget, including families and pet owners. There's an outdoor pool with a decent-size deck, but both can get crowded in the summer months. Also, some guests may feel inconvenienced that Wi-Fi is only available at the pool or in the lobby (and for a fee).

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Oyster Hotel Review

Small, bustling value hotel with a convenient location that draws travelers on a budget

A simple, low-rise property located in Waikiki, the White Sands is a small hotel in a central location. It's a short walk to the Waikiki Beach, as well as to shops, restaurants, attractions, and nightlife.

A charming, flower-covered trellis leads to a lobby that is quite spartan in comparison (picture minimal decor, cream-colored tile floors, and light wood furnishings). Long but narrow, the lobby can feel cramped when busy. On one end is the hotel's business center, which is actually just one computer placed on a simple desk with a lawn chair that doesn't provide the most comfortable seating. Activities brochures are displayed alongside a small library of books that can be borrowed by guests. In addition to the lending library, another thoughtful detail is the iced lemon water available for guests. Outside in the courtyard, there's more personality: Highlights include a small foot bridge, benches, and a waterfall surrounded by tropical plants.

The White Sands caters to cost-conscious tourists and most definitely has the look of a value hotel, with simple, 1980s-style decor throughout that is in need of an update. The convenient location is clearly the draw here.

With a central location near the beach, shops, dining, and attractions, it's a good base for tourists looking to explore Waikiki on a budget

The location of White Sands Hotel is its key feature, as it stands just a few blocks from Waikiki Beach and is surrounded by shopping, restaurants, and tourist attractions. It is also close to a number of Waikiki nightlife options. The hotel is within walking distance of the Honolulu Zoo. Recreational activities (including tennis, golf, and water sports) are also available nearby.

Basic rooms offer minimal decor and simple furnishings, with some showing signs of wear in the kitchens and bathrooms

The rooms at the White Sands are very basic and average in size. They offer cream-colored walls, simple bedding, minimal decorations, and few furnishings aside from bedside tables and dressers. Some rooms have small kitchens, which have a decidedly 1980s' feel (picture white tiled floors, yellow cabinets, and tiny white dining tables). The kitchen fixtures and appliances (which include microwaves and stovetops in some) are worn. The bathrooms also have a tired feel, with some guests complaining of signs of wear and tear. Views aren't spectacular, whether facing the pool or the street, and noise levels in both directions can be expected from the balconies, which are a feature of every room.

This budget hotel is fairly no-frills, with few public amenities. The main highlight is the courtyard that features a swimming pool (albeit small) with a decent-size sun deck, though the lounge chairs look a bit dingy. There's also an outdoor shower and a barbecue grill, as well as a lovely waterfall and footbridge surrounded by plants. Guests can upgrade to additional amenities by paying a convenience fee. These amenities include free, unlimited rental of DVDs and PS3 games; Waikiki shuttle service; daily newspaper; in-room coffee; use of in-room safe; and local and toll-free calls.